X: @SteveBakerFRSA . More here.
"An acute humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Gaza, and the Government must respond. To see a strike on a hospital is outrageous and heart-breaking, compounding the anguish we feel over the loss of innocent life. There are several accounts of what happened at the Al-Ahli Hospital, and I know the Foreign Secretary and the intelligence services are working at pace with allies in the international community to fully understand this tragedy.
I am proud the Government is providing an additional £10 million in aid for those in Palestine whilst this terrible situation unfolds and is clear that innocent civilians in Gaza must be protected.
As the Prime Minister said on Monday, there are many who are appalled by Hamas' actions, but fearful about what will happen next to people living in the area. As the Foreign Secretary said in relation to Hamas' attack on Israel, there is never justification for the brutal targeting of civilians. I am well aware of the belief of many of my constituents that Israel's actions in Gaza are not in accordance with international law, and I am clear we must listen, as the Prime Minister said, to these concerns with the same attentiveness we pay to the Jewish community.
I have long made the case for a two-state solution, including by voting to recognise the state of Palestine, which you can read more about here: http://www.stevebaker.info/2014/10/recognise-palestine
I am horrified to see the actions of Hamas move the hopes of Palestinians backwards. I remain committed to the Government’s long-standing support of a two-state solution, while resolving to stand against all those who threaten that prospect.
How just war is conducted and how nation states fight terrorism matters very much indeed to the present state and future of our civilisation. I have received many representations about double standards in the treatment of Israelis and Palestinians by the UK Government, by the EU and others. I have in turn made representations on behalf of Wycombe residents to the Prime Minister, his team and other ministers. I am clear that innocent life is equally valuable everywhere and that justice under the rule of law is for all, Palestinians and Israelis alike.
I continue to listen carefully to local people and to represent their views appropriately. At such a time, it is vital we all stick peacefully to universal principles of justice and humanitarianism. I will continue to emphasise that to my colleagues in Government.
I very much hope we will unite around our shared values here in Wycombe."